Calcutta HC slams State over unauthorised removal of tram tracks, demands reports by January 14

The Calcutta High Court has raised concerns over the unauthorized removal of tram tracks on multiple routes in Kolkata, which were replaced with asphalt, in violation of its earlier orders. The state government had undertaken this action without obtaining approval from the court or the advisory committee formed to review the future of trams in the city. The court has directed the state to provide a detailed written explanation regarding the removal of the tracks and the subsequent filling of the space with asphalt.

On August 7, 2023, the Calcutta High Court constituted an advisory committee to assess the status of the city’s tram network and decide whether to continue or discontinue the services on certain routes. The committee was expected to meet regularly to deliberate on the issue. However, it has been revealed that the committee has not convened since January 4, 2024, raising questions about the delay in its activities. In response, the court has demanded an explanation from the state and the committee regarding the lack of meetings.

The court further ordered the state to provide a detailed report on the actions taken to restore tram services on routes that have been suspended. The report must include information about the steps taken to reintroduce trams on these routes and a timeline for their reopening. If the court is not satisfied with the state’s report, further legal action will be considered, including the possibility of imposing stricter directives.

Additionally, the court has instructed the advisory committee to immediately convene and submit a comprehensive report on its plans and recommendations for the future of the tram network in Kolkata. The committee must detail any decisions made regarding the tram system and provide insights into its future operation. The court has set a deadline for the submission of all reports by January 14, 2025, ahead of the next hearing.